Podcasts about bodhisattvas

[This episode originally aired on Oct. 2, 2023]  The Mahayana, or open path, is the path of the Bodhisattva — the enlightened warrior of wisdom and compassion  •  at the core of the Mahayana path is an outrageous vow, called the Bodhisattva vow, where we vow to emulate the great Bodhisattvas of wisdom and compassionate action  •  the Bodhisattva vow, conventionally speaking, makes no sense at all  •  you vow to save all sentient beings as vast as they are throughout space and time  •  you might think, that's pretty darn presumptuous to make a vow like that; you might even call it absurd, impossible  •  nonetheless, you do it  •  it's crazy to think that you could save all sentient beings, or even hold that thought at all  •  but you keep going, and if you're fortunate, you might be able to save at least someone, or some being, from some level of suffering  •  the vow of the Bodhisattva is not dreamy or romantic; it is grounded in very gritty reality of life for sentient beings of all kinds who suffer greatly  •  but because you see this pattern so clearly, you also see the flip side  •  instead of saying, “Wherever there are sentient beings, there are conflicting emotions,” you could say, “And wherever there are sentient beings, there's wisdom, there's intelligence; there's love and kindness and compassion. There are efforts to help. There is a lessening of pain, sorrow, and suffering.” In approaching the Bodhisattva path, you recognize that both of these patterns are true.

Bernd Bender, Dharma-Vortrag am 08. Juni 2025, Zen-Tag im Akazienzendo BerlinIm Zentrum der meisten schrecklichen Konflikte steht – so könnte man zumindest aus Zen-Buddhistischer Sicht sagen –, dass wir dem dualistischen Geist glauben schenken, also jenem Geist, der andere erst zu anderen macht und diesen vermeintlich so anderen eine eigenständige, feste Identität zuschreibt. Wenn wir mit dieser Dynamik tief vertraut werden, können wir realisieren, dass die anderen letztlich nie grundlegend anders sind und immer schon gewesen waren, wer wir sind. Bernd geht auf die Dynamik des dualistischen Geistes ein und widmet sich dabei der Frage nach Identität und Identitäten und der Bodhisattva-Praxis des Handelns in Identität. Das Sandokai von Shitou Xiqian wird dabei ebenso betrachtet wie Dongshan Liangjies Erleuchtungsgedicht und Dogen Zenjis vier leitende Praktiken von Bodhisattvas.Support the show

A talk given at Berkeley Zen Center on Saturday, May 17th 2025 by Mark Copithorne.

Sesshin day 3. Teisho by Sangen Salo sensei during the April 5-day sesshin 2025 at Sanneji Zen Temple in Karjaa, Finland.

In this time of global uncertainty, Jack Kornfield and Trudy Goodman call us to rise with fierce compassion and become Bodhisattvas of the Great Turning.Join Jack's Free New Course, Stand Up For Compassion: A Free Course and Resource for Navigating Uncertain Times. “You become the imaginal cells in these times. Things fall apart, but in you is the understanding that compassion is big enough to hold all of this, that the heart is big enough to hold all this, that the Dharma is big enough to shine through empires, changes, crisis, and beauty. That's what we have—the Bodhisattva can carry on liberating beings from suffering, however long it takes.” – Jack KornfieldIn this episode, Jack and Trudy mindfully explore:How you can pick all the flowers, but you can't stop the springNavigating fear politics and the cultural media machineLetting go of fear, blame, shame, and ending systemic divisionUsing this time of “The Great Turning” as an opportunity to create a more loving worldAjahn Chah and living the truth of uncertaintyHow to face the big problems of the world with even bigger loveMeeting the world through the Bodhisattva VowsHow loving people and feeding people connects with enlightenmentThe path and practices of loving awareness and compassionInclining the heart towards kindness and generosityHow caterpillars change to butterflies through Imaginal CellsThe world-changing power of true communityLearning how to respond mindfully to any trigger or circumstanceBecoming a make-weight of hope to tip the scales of humanity to love and balanceThe spiritual wisdom of Passover and EasterLetting go of tension and flowing into relaxationThe Pagan Goddess of DawnCommunity as the antidote for lonelinessCrying, letting the tears come, and seeing what happensHow to interact with people who are highly anxious or avoidantSaying hello to the people around you“Tears feel endless, bottomless, when they don't have a chance to fall. When they get to fall, they fall and fall, but they stop because tears too are impermanent, they cannot fall forever. It's really like this with all the intense emotions we are afraid will flood and drown us in some way.” – Trudy Goodman"What we're experiencing, Joanna Macy calls, The Great Turning. It's the breakdown of the exploitive late-stage capitalist model where we get as much as we can, and the harbinger of the possibility of interdependence. When it breaks down, that turning says, ‘We will use this time to turn this world into something better, to care for one another. The possibility starts with us." – Jack Kornfield This episode was originally recorded for the InsightLA Sunday livestream on April 20, 2025.Photo via WirestockAbout Jack Kornfield:Jack Kornfield trained as a Buddhist monk in the monasteries of Thailand, India, and Burma, studying as a monk under the Buddhist master Ven. Ajahn Chah, as well as the Ven. Mahasi Sayadaw. He has taught meditation internationally since 1974 and is one of the key teachers to introduce Buddhist mindfulness practice to the West. Jack co-founded the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Massachusetts, with fellow meditation teachers Sharon Salzberg and Joseph Goldstein and the Spirit Rock Center in Woodacre, California. His books have been translated into 20 languages and sold more than a million copies.Jack is currently offering a wonderful array of transformational online courses diving into crucial topics like Mindfulness Meditation Fundamentals, Walking the Eightfold Path, Opening the Heart of Forgiveness, Living Beautifully, Transforming Your Life Through Powerful Stories, and so much more. Sign up for an All Access Pass to explore Jack's entire course library. If you would like a year's worth of online meetups with Jack and fellow community, join The Year of Awakening: A Monthly Journey with Jack Kornfield.Stay up to date with Jack and his stream of fresh dharma offerings by visiting JackKornfield.com and signing up for his email teachings.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guhyaloka—the ‘Secret Valley'—has been the Triratna Buddhist Community's primary place for men's ordination since 1987. Over 600 men have become Order members there. It has therefore been vitally important in helping to shape what the Triratna community offers the world today. But for it to thrive into the future, Guhyaloka needs to undergo major renovations, which requires financial support. To find out how you can help, please visit: https://guhyaloka.org/fortheages Donate now: http://justgiving.com/campaign/Guhyaloka The Hands of Avalokitesvara Can you be a part of making Guhyaloka a place of ordination ‘For the Ages'? We need to raise £850,000 As its primary purpose has been to support the witnessing of effective Going for Refuge—the central Buddhist act—Guhyaloka has become steeped in the blessings of the Buddhas. Your donation will ensure this continues so that the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas can be as present in the valley as the rocks are, as the forest is, as the breeze that blows through the open door of the shrine room as each man prostrates to the image of the Refuge Tree. “Far from the roar of traffic Far from the frantic crowd, I feel my soul expanded With dreams not disallowed.” Urgyen Sangharakshita, ‘Guhyaloka, July 1998'

In this opening session of Spring Practice Period, Senseis Monshin, Shinzan, and Ryotan warmly welcome participants to explore “Living in the Embrace of the Bodhisattva Path.” Sensei Monshin begins by speaking to the ancient tradition […]

Standing up for compassion in this powerful new Dharma Talk, Jack offers a steady spiritual rudder for navigating turbulent politics with the heart of a Bodhisattva.This episode is brought to you by Betterhelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/heartwisdom and get on your way to being your best self“It's a time to get quiet and remember that you're here for a beautiful purpose, oh Bodhisattvas. What better thing to do with your life?” – Jack KornfieldIn this episode of Heart Wisdom, Jack mindfully explores:Navigating this world's maelstrom of change from a deep spiritual rudderReturning from his trip to Asia; landing in Los Angeles on fireSamsara and the nature of uncertaintyCreating a wise society based on mutual careTrading our personal and cultural anxiety for imagination and hopeAlison Luterman's heart-opening poem, Praise the Broken Promise of AmericaUsing the Dharma to move past Liberal versus ConservativeHow to help the vulnerable in the worldRemembering your best values as things changeGrounding yourself, steadying your heart, and remaining hopefulBringing peace to this world, developing metta, and supporting what's goodTaking the long view, living with integrity, virtue, and imaginationJoining together with your community to stand up for compassionBeing hopeful and helpful through difficult timesLiving like a Bodhisattva—offering support, compassion, loving kindness“Take the long view—your intention, heart, and mind in all the cycles of birth and death. That deep intention of wisdom creates what's possible for a wise society. It becomes a rudder through difficult times.” – Jack Kornfield“When a society treats its members with respect, cares for the weak and vulnerable among them and tends the natural world around… it can be expected to prosper and not decline.” – Mahāparinibbāna SuttaThis Dharma Talk was originally recorded for the Spirit Rock Meditation Center Monday Night Talk and Meditation on 2/10/25.Learn the Dynamic Art of Interactive Guided Meditation with Jack Kornfield in this online masterclass beginning April 7!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Greetings friends~As we be together in this political moment, I wanted to offer some of the dharma teachings and practices that I have been leaning into. One of which is sharing poetry, so first a poem.For When People Ask by Rosemerry Wahtola TrommerI want a word that meansokay and not okay,more than that: a word that meansdevastated and stunned with joy.I want the word that saysI feel it all all at once.The heart is not like a songbirdsinging only one note at a time,more like a Tuvan throat singerable to sing both a droneand simultaneouslytwo or three harmonics high above it—a sound, the Tuvans say,that gives the impressionof wind swirling among rocks.The heart understands swirl,how the churning of opposite feelingsweaves through us like an insistent breezeleads us wordlessly deeper into ourselves,blesses us with paradoxso we might walk more openlyinto this world so rife with devastation,this world so ripe with joy.Honor the wisdom of your body. Our bodies are wise, they feel and respond to the information coming in through our environment. In the single unified field of embodied awareness, all response is welcome. All response is more information.To honor the body's wisdom is to make space to feel what you are feeling, to drop into the body and allow the sensations, feelings and emotions that are present to be experienced and processed through the body's awareness.I want to name that we are experiencing abuse of power on a national level and attempts to undo basic practices of equity and care for folks with already marginalized identities and our earth. This may activate trauma responses or nervous system alerts in our bodies, responses of fear, freeze, rage, fight, anger, grief and overwhelm or feelings and sensations that are hard to feel/name. What practices help you tend to your body and nervous system, to feel and listen to your emotions?Bayo Akomalfe quoting a Yoruba saying says: The times are urgent, slow downMeditation and mindfulness help us presence what we are actually feeling and transmute emotional reactions into wisdom, compassion and right action.This is a process of recognizing what we are telling ourselves, what thoughts, memories and worries are being triggered—and coming back to our direct experience—here— in this living present. The four foundations of mindfulness is one way of touching into the different realms of our experience, they are:Feel your bodyFeel you feelingsBecome aware of mental activity (remember we don't have to believe our thoughts)Rest in Awareness itselfArt, exercise, body movement practices, eating good food, taking in beauty, breathing deeply, being around others with regulated nervous systems like (meditation, yoga, art spaces, therapy, natural world) are other important ways to care for, nourish our bodies.Insight Practice—The dharma teachings remind us that right here, in our present experience, in the imminence of this—there is a refuge that can't be taken away. All the koans point us back here.We ask—who is it that is aware? What is this? Not merely as an existential inquiry, but as a way to remember ourselves back to the truth of who we are.In times of crisis, angst, hopelessness and fear our true nature is right here. Aware, open, deeply grounded, whole.Zen awakening reminds us that we can know this freedom in any situation.Sometimes when things are stripped away, when we are truly facing uncertainty or crisis, we are more available to this level of the teachings—what remains when even your sense of security is called into question?what remains when everything is taken away?Reflection on Impermanence—Hakuin Zenji likened impermanence to a black fire. We don't see it coming, so we are surprised when conditioned things change. Before the Buddha died he reminded his disciples that all compounded things are subject to vanish. Our bodies, our relationships, our work, our societies—are subject to change. Whatever is happening now, will change.In Buddhism we are invited to contemplate impermanence as a regular part of our practice life. When we do this, we see or remember that everything we love or depend on is of the nature to change.All beings are a life-cycle, they were born, they will die. It can be powerful to view each being like this, to see their birth and death within whatever their present expression is. Civilizations, societies also have a birth and a death.There is this teaching from Ajahn Cha, who apparently had this favorite cup that he always insisted on using when he gave formal talks. He would admire the beauty of the cup publicly. Once a student asked him about the teaching of non-attachment and impermanence in relationship to his cup. Ajahn Cha said, it is because I know that this cup will break someday that I love it so much.Impermanence can help us connect to what truly matters, to our love for this dynamic and wild life, and all the elements it contains.Four Divine Abodes—Loving kindness, compassion, joy, equanimity—these are qualities we can cultivate and dwell in—a clear and stable mind, a heart grounded in love, compassion and joy. Its actually quite subversive to practice the four boundless qualities of the heart-mind. To remember that we are interconnected, and that it is not our responsibility alone to save the world.When you don't know what to do, practice Loving kindness for yourself, for others, for the planet, for our world. For all beings who are experiencing fear. For all beings who are caught in greed, hatred and delusionHatreds never cease through hatred in this world; through love alone they cease. This is an eternal law.—the BuddhaDharma Protectors—Ask for help from the Bodhisattvas, Jizo Bodhisattva has this vow to enter any hell realm and guide beings to liberation. Ask Jizo to protect those who are most vulnerable, including parts of yourself!Vows—Stay connected to your vows. I find in times of stress, uncertainty, fear or confusion if I turn towards the bodhisattva vows, my personal vows clarify and deepen. Many of us may not have vows that we have articulated for this life, but may have a felt sense of calling, direction or orientation. Leaning into what matters, and drawing strength from this kind of north star orientation is essential for our hearts.Sangha—Thich Nhat Hanh said that the next Buddha is the Sangha. It has long been known that awakening and spiritual maturation happen in community, side by side with each other. We are stronger together. We just are.The more that we can rest into spiritual practice not being about achieving some kind of personal fulfillment, the more rich and meaningful spiritual practice becomes. I would say the same thing about living, if we are living for ourselves as a community of beings—life has a richness to it. Let's let our sense of community extend to include the entire world—the entire cosmos.Take refuge in community, and let yourself stay open to discovering more community in your life!Creativity—Make Art, Share Poetry, Sing, Dance, Illustrate, tell stories, make food for those you love, make time for creative expressionArt-making is an embodied practice.Art is healing, it opens us up to the different parts of ourselves and connects us to the collective.Art is a way to process and practice being imperfect.When we create, we are in touch with creation on an embodied level, love is being expressed through our being in all its various shades and colors.Art allows breakthroughs, something that has never been is given life.As systems crumble before our eyes, something new will be born, will rise from the ashes. Our creativity is part of that process. Trust that.In a Dangerous Time by Rosemerry Wahtola TrommerI think of the bonesof the unsung rib cage,the way they protectthe heart. How bone,too, is living, how it constantlyrenews and remakes itself.I think of how ribs engagewith other ribsto expand, to contract,and because they dotheir solid work,they allow the heart to float.This is what I want to do:to be a rib in this bodyof our country,to make a safe space for love.There is so much nowthat needs protection.I want to be that flexible,that committed to what's vital,that unwilling to yield.I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, budding Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions in the styles of IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Below you can find a list of weekly and monthly online and in-person practice opportunities.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKMonthly Online Practice EventSky+Rose: An emergent online community braiding spirit and soul10:30A - 12:30P PT / 1:30P - 3:30P ETnext Meeting March 9th with JogenIn-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaSpring Blossoms Daylong Retreat Sunday March 9 at Spring Hallow Lodge in Sharon Woods in Columbus, OHInterdependence Sesshin: A Five Day Residential Retreat Wednesday July 2 - Sunday July 6 in Montrose, WV at Saranam Retreat Center (Mud Lotus is hosting its first Sesshin!)Weekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

"Om Mani Padme Hum" is a sacred mantra in Tibetan Buddhism, associated with the Bodhisattvas of Compassion (Avalokiteshvara), Wisdom (Manjushri), and Power (Vajrapani). It is believed to bring profound benefits when chanted, connecting us to compassion, wisdom, and peace.“Om” is the primordial sound, representing enlightened beings' body, speech, and mind.“Mani” means jewel, symbolising the altruistic intention to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.“Padme” means lotus, representing purity, enlightenment, and spiritual growth.“Hum” emphasises the union of wisdom and compassion.The mantra encapsulates the Buddhist path, combining wisdom and compassion. It reminds us that challenges (mud) lead to personal growth and transformation (lotus). Reflect on how obstacles can guide self-discovery and compassion for yourself and others. By embracing suffering, we awaken to the truth and connect with the power of love, kindness, and altruistic action.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ho, ho, ho liebe BBDF Hörerinnen und Hörer!

Ho, ho, ho liebe BBDF Hörerinnen und Hörer!

As the calendar year comes to an end, I offer this poem as a re-write of a text that one of my Sanghas has been studying. The text is called The Eight Realizations of Great Beings, one story says it was one of the last teachings given by the Buddha before passing into PariNirvana.I re-wrote the teaching as a way of distilling and remembering the practices we did together during our Autumn Ango. The teaching is about liberation and the profound realization of our interconnected life. I offer it as a capping phrase to this Autumn of our practice life, and as something we can turn over in our hearts throughout the winter and coming year. For the dharma teachings always get better with age.The Eight Realizations: Pith Instructions for Living a Joyful LifeI—ImpermanenceAll the world is impermanent. Change is our nature.Our bodies, minds, the body of the great earth and everyone we loveThe universe with its stars and solar systemsWill change, are changing, will decay and give way toSomething newRealize the truth of impermanenceAnd wisdom will be your guideII—Clinging/SatisfactionWhen we try to hold on to something that is changingWe sufferGreed, hoarding, taking more than one's shareThis is clingingThis is sufferingPractice satisfaction, know how much is enoughLive in reciprocity with the earth and all beingsIII—SimplicityThe mind is insatiable, always wanting moreand more, and moreFollow the path of liberationLive simplyMake wisdom + compassion your sole vocationIV—Joyful EffortTo follow the WayIs like trying to swim upstreamIt takes enthusiastic perseveranceAnd great carePractice with others andYou are buoyed by their generous currentsV—MindfulnessMindfulness is a great friendAttention is healingTruly an act of loveListen to the wisdom of yourBody, feelings, mind and awarenessPractice discernmentAnd you won't be misledVI—GenerosityGenerosity is a pathA generous heart is always fullTake joy in givingAnd receivingAnd you will realizeThe gift of this lifeVII—InterconnectionVast is the Buddha's robe of liberationA formless field of interconnectionAnd kindnessTransmute unskillful desiresInto the heart of bodhicittaFill your bowl with compassionAnd offer it to allVIII—VowIn this world of suffering and loveRemember that you are not separateFrom anyone or anythingVow to walk this pathFor the benefit of all beingsThroughout time and spaceThese are the 8 realizations, the practices of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, Ancestors and other great beings. Practice them, develop wisdom and compassion, and live in reciprocity with all beings. This is the way to living a joyful life.I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, budding Astrologer and Artist. I currently live in Columbus, Ohio with my partner Patrick Kennyo Dunn, we facilitate an in-person meditation gathering every Wednesday from 7P - 8:30P at ILLIO in Clintonville through Mud Lotus Sangha. If you happen to be in Columbus, feel free to stop by. We have weekly meditation gatherings and monthly Saturday offerings as well.Thanks for reading friends! The recording is from a dharma talk that was given during Monday Night Meditation. You can find out more below. Also, I would love to hear from you, please feel free to like or comment on this post—and share it!Current OfferingsSpiritual Counseling — IFS informed, mindful somatic therapyAstrology— I am starting to offer astrology readings. I have found astrology to be a helpful map for connecting to the more mythic unfolding of life. It can help us honor our gifts, navigate challenges, get perspective and connect with planetary allies. It can also offer guidance on the questions that arise in our lives and aid us in stepping more fully into our wholeness. I am currently offering the following types of readings* Natal Chart Readings* Astro Counseling Package* Transit Readings* Great Work of Your Life Reading* Astrology Gift Card — give the gift of an astrology readingArt Shop — I sell my original paintings and printsMonday Night Meditation + DharmaEvery Monday 6P PT / 9P ETJoin me on zoom for 40 minutes of meditation and a dharma talk. We are currently exploring a text called The Eight Realizations of Great Beings, which gives us an opportunity to practice inquiry and embodying love as we discover our Awakened Nature together.This event is hosted by the Zen Community of Oregon. All are welcome to join. Drop in any time.Zoom Link for Monday NightSky + Rose: An Emergent Online Contemplative Community Braiding Spirit and SoulSunday Jan 510:30A PT - 12:30P PT / 1:30P ET - 3:30P ETWhat is it? An experiment in the impossible task of excluding nothing and loving everything. An alchemy of play, presence and wandering into the shadows, you could say.Sky & Rose is a practice container that will:* Center group parts work practices to explore the fluidity, span and dream of who we are - somebody, nobody, everybody. You will be invited to express yourself vocally and physically, engage your imagination and play outside habituation.* Do interpersonal and group meditation practices of seeing, being and awakening.* Directly explore emotional embodiment & shadow work* Include Beauty, Art & Wonderment as core practice elementsThrough rituals of imagination, meditation technologies and co-created fields of intentional play, we can slip out, for a time, of confining identities defined by our histories, culture and comfort. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

Hosted by visiting-Teachers-In-Residence Greg Fain and Linda Galijan.

Thich Nhat Hanh said “no mud, no lotus.”  How might anger, hatred and delusion—the mud of these times-- give rise to a growing compassion and wisdom in our world?  In this talk we look directly at the angst surrounding the US elections, and explore several powerful teachings and practices that can serve as the catalyst for profound transformation, an evolving of wisdom and love, in our collective consciousness.

In this episode you will hear a Daily Reminder from Ji Kwang Dae Poep Sa Nim about the days of honor of the three Great Bodhisattvas Kwan Se Um Bo Sal, Ji Jang Bo Sal and Medicine King Buddha.Thank You very much Ji Kwang Dae Poep Sa Nim,Hapchang,Gak Duk

In dieser Episode hörst Du ein Daily Reminder von Ji Kwang Dae Poep Sa Nim über die Ehrentage der drei Großen Bodhisattvas Kwan Se Um Bo Sal, Ji Jang Bo Sal und Medizinkönig- Buddha.Vielen Dank Ji Kwang Dae Poep Sa Nim,Hapchang,Gak Duk

Hosted by visiting-Teachers-In-Residence Linda Galijan and Greg Fain.

Hosted by visiting-Teachers-In-Residence Linda Galijan and Greg Fain.

Hosted by visiting-Teachers-In-Residence Greg Fain and Linda Galijan.

Returning to the twists and turns of the endless, meandering 2024 campaign for POTUS, and looming uncertainty of threatened challenges to the vote promising to bollix up the results, the question arises as to what this may have to do with Zen. The dedicated Zen guy who produces the UnMind podcast suggested that we take up the premise of the “Bodhisattva ideal” in Buddhism, comparing and contrasting behaviors and apparent attitudes of the candidates — and politicians in general — to this lofty ideal and aspiration. Somewhere in the copious Zen literature I came across the proposition that governmental leaders find themselves in positions of power owing to karmic merit accumulated in past lives, apparently whether they know it or not. We can suppose that this quaint notion arose in the context of predominantly Buddhist societies, such as that of Ashoka the Great in India, or in the later empires or principalities in China. It requires quite a stretch of the imagination to interpret our current political situation from that standpoint, though an online meme that one of the candidates is the “chosen of God” is even more ludicrous to contemplate. Looking at the meaning of “Bodhisattva” thorough the eyes of Google, the first hit that comes up is from the University of Washington, Seattle-based home of the Huskies, the first thing that comes up on their homepage. We will defer any consideration of college football as the key branding element of UW, and higher education in general, for a later segment. Their more-or-less traditional definition of the Bodhisattva assumedly comes from their comparative religion department: Bodhisattvas are enlightened beings who have put off entering paradise in order to help others attain enlightenment. There are many different Bodhisattvas, but the most famous in China is Avalokitesvara, known in Chinese as Guanyin. Bodhisattvas are usually depicted as less austere or inward than the Buddha. — https://depts.washington.edu Parsing this definition, I have a few quibbles. We prefer the use of “enlightening” beings as it indicates a process in which all of us comprise a work in progress, whereas “enlightened” indicates a state of completion. No true bodhisattva would ever claim to be enlightened in that sense. In the sense of enlightened self interest and the best interests of others, yes. Then there is the idea of “entering paradise.” The Buddhist term “Nirvana” is not pointing at another dimension or plane of existence, but the true nature of this world in which we find ourselves — so-called “Samsara.” As Master Dogen reminds us, “actually, the Other Shore (of Nirvana) comes to us”; we do not go to it. As Shohaku Okumura-roshi once mentioned, “Everybody says they want to go to Nirvana. But when you go there, there is nobody there. Only bodhisattvas can go to Nirvana, and they choose to stay here. So our charge is to change Samsara into Nirvana.” This is what Dogen means by saying the other shore comes to us. The reference to “many different Bodhisattvas” and the most famous being Avalokitesvara, Guanyin in China, or Kanzeon in Japan, reinforces the notion that bodhisattvas are a special class of beings, outside the kin or ordinary mortals — much like the icons of other religions, such as canonized prophets, saints and saviors, or demigods. My understanding of the Zen ideal is that we are all bodhisattvas, whether we know it or not. And finally, the reference to their relatively diminished austerity seems somewhat overwrought. My reading of the original teachings attributed to Shakyamuni reveal a profound humility and accessibility, and a remarkable empathy for his audience, that any bodhisattva would aspire to emulate. Awakening of the Bodhi mind is concomitant with the Bodhisattva vow — to help all others before reaching the other shore — according to Dogen, who should know. So how do our current carriers of partisan banners stack up against this image? I would suggest that their motivations have little or nothing to do with entering paradise, for one. So in that, they are like bodhisattvas — but focusing their efforts on the present and immediate future of prosperity in the secular sphere — not the spiritual realm. In American politics, and perhaps that of Western countries in general, there is an underlying implication that behavior in the societal sphere is indicative of one's “values,” which tend to land in the ethical, moral, and spiritual column. This may be a vestigial remnant of the puritan ethic that pervaded the early migrants to these shores, the after- effects of which we witness today, including in the performative permutations of partisan politics. But, quoting myself in an earlier UnMind segment, there are brute behaviors of our fellow-travelers in this particular time and space that cannot be excused as politic: When it comes to indiscriminate bombing of civilians and children, we are no longer in the realm of “politics.” If we are silent, we become complicit. Buddha, I believe, would have spoken out against this betrayal of compassion and wisdom. As did Matsuoka Roshi, concerning the corrupt regime in Vietnam, and other atrocities of his time. We can look to the teachings and meditation practice of Zen Buddhism to find a degree of solace and sanctuary from these insults to humanity, but we cannot run, and we cannot hide from them, ultimately. But we do not have to join the partisan divide, either. In the same episode, we provided some historical context by referring to the foundational documents of the Founding Fathers, including the Declaration of Independence, with particular attention to the second section: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. This begins to sound a lot like the Bodhisattva ideal applied to the salvation of others, at least in the secular realm. If we are all equal, we all have equal potential to wake up in the most comprehensive sense, as did Shakyamuni Buddha. We also innately deserve to be treated with the highest degree of respect from our peers. And each and all have equal claim to life — within the realistic constraints of aging, sickness and death; to liberty — in the sense of true liberation from our own ignorance, and the imposition of that of others upon our lives; and the pursuit of true happiness, which does not derive from materialistic sources. Perhaps our political leaders are doing their level best to secure the rights, at least in their secular manifestation. But compare to the Bodhisattva vows, which address serving, or saving all beings, on another scale altogether; two translations give us a better insight into their broader and deeper meaning: Beings are numberless I vow to free themDelusions are inexhaustible I vow to end themDharma gates are boundless I vow to enter themThe Buddha way is unsurpassable I vow to realize it However innumerable all beings are I vow to free them allHowever inexhaustible my delusions are I vow to extinguish them allHowever immeasurable the dharma teachings are I vow to master them allHowever endless the great way I vow to follow it completely I leave it to you to decide whether or not, and to what degree, your candidate for the highest office in the land, the most powerful secular position on Earth, are in harmony with these compassionate aspirations. But remember that the teachings of Buddhism were never meant to be held up to criticize others, but to reflect back upon yourself and your own behavior. The mirror of Zen reflects all — the good, the bad, and the ugly — without discrimination. You and your behavior are also reflected in that Precious Mirror.

Buddhism Reference – The Three Clarities. Early teachings for Arhats become the Mahayana of Three Illuminations of Bodhisattvas and Buddhas. “Buddhism Reference” – Now Available   Threefoldlotus.com/home/Ebooks.htm

Podcast audio: The post Talk by Soten “Bodhisattvas in the Brothels” first appeared on The Village Zendo.

The Bodhisattva ideal really blossomed in the Mahayana traditions but the idea of the Bodhisattva was certainly present in the earlier traditions.  Perhaps not in name but certainly in expression.  When the Buddha spoke about himself before his Enlightenment, he referred to himself as a Bodhisattva.  And, of course, the fact that he taught for 40 years after his Awakening points to his desire to awaken all beings.  But how is the ideal expressed in us?  Two papers:Bhikkhu Anālayo, Genesis of the Bodhisattva Ideal — https://www.buddhismuskunde.uni-hamburg.de/pdf/5-personen/analayo/genesis-bodhisattva.pdf Bhikkhu Bodhi, “Arahants, Bodhisattvas, and Buddhas” — https://www.accesstoinsight.org/lib/authors/bodhi/arahantsbodhisattvas.html Videos from Doug's Dharma:What is a Bodhisattva? --  https://youtu.be/bs1XtNrNXpMThe Early History of the Bodhisattva Ideal -- https://youtu.be/ECI_3ytgxcQ Support the Show.Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/

Don't be so arrogant right?

[This episode originally aired on August 16, 2022]  Bodhisattvas are those who dedicate their lives to attaining enlightenment themselves, and to providing situations that lead to the enlightenment of everyone  •  in approaching this high aspiration, bodhisattvas do not look to some heavenly figure to provide examples of how to accomplish the goals of the bodhisattva path  •  instead, they look to the elements of this ordinary world: the elements of earth, water, fire, wind, and space  •  like the earth, we can aspire to support all life, and provide a base of support that is non-judging, strong, solid, and reliable  •  like water, we can aspire to cleanse impurities, join things together, and relieve a world thirsty for love and compassion  •  like fire, we can aspire to burn away the distinctions we cling to so strongly, and purify whatever we come into contact with  •  like wind, we can aspire to provide a cool breeze of delight, sweeping away possessiveness, egocentric clinging, and obstacles  •  like space, we can aspire to accommodate everything.

00:02:00 - Koan - 'Not Helping' 00:08:47 - Exercise - in Groups of - 1. Reflect on the Koan for 5 minutes - 2. Speak to what it brings up in you, if anything 00:08:55 - Joel Invites Participants to Share Koan taken from : Zen Master Raven: Sayings and Doings of a Wise Bird - 2002 - Robert Aitken 'Not Helping' After a talk by Raven about the Precepts, Woodpecker said, “The Cowbird lays her eggs in the Wren's nest and the two wrens have to hustle to feed the cowbird's baby as well as their own. I don't see why the wrens stand for it, especially since the cowbirds baby is a lot bigger, and theirs has a huge appetite. Maybe the wrens are really Bodhisattvas, selflessly devoted to helping others”. Raven said “They arn't helping the Cowbirds”

Shantideva's Dedication Prayer is one of H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama's favourite dedications, extracted from Chapter 10 of the Bodhicharyavatara of Master Shantideva. Treasured by Buddhists of all traditions, The Way of the Bodhisattva (Bodhicharyavatara) is a guide to cultivating the mind of enlightenment and to generating the qualities of love, compassion, generosity, and patience. This text has been studied, practiced, and expounded upon in an unbroken tradition for centuries. Presented in the form of a personal meditation in verse, it outlines the path of the Bodhisattvas--those who renounce the peace of individual enlightenment and vow to work for the liberation of all beings and to attain buddhahood for their sake. Shantideva was a scholar in the eighth century from the monastic university Nalanda, one of the most celebrated centers of learning in ancient India. According to legend, Shantideva was greatly inspired by the celestial bodhisattva Manjushri, from whom he secretly received teachings and great insights. Music: Wings of an Angel - Amitābha Buddha - with loving thank to 'Wings' for his gifts of music.

Here Subhadramati shares her experience witnessing Bhante circumambulating and bowing to the shrine and how that deep gesture of reverence evoked a strong sense of the lineage of inspiration in her. Excerpted from the talk entitled Avalokiteshvara given as part of the series Buddhas and Bodhisattvas given at Cambridge Buddhist Centre, 2019. *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every week. Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts A full, curated, quality Dharma talk, every week. 3,000,000 downloads and counting! Subscribe using these RSS feeds or search for Free Buddhist Audio or Dharmabytes in your favourite podcast service! Help us keep FBA Podcasts free for everyone: donate now! Follow Free Buddhist Audio: YouTube  |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Soundcloud  

Welcome to the Instant Trivia podcast episode 1212, where we ask the best trivia on the Internet. Round 1. Category: Allusions Of Grandeur 1: An ancient city on the Euphrates River known for its magnificence, today it can also mean a place of vice and corruption. Babylon. 2: You're living in grand style if you have the "white" type of this strong-smelling underground fungus on your table. truffle. 3: The 19th century railroad sleeping car named for this man was a symbol of splendor equal to the finest hotel. Pullman. 4: In 1909 this French jeweler opened a store on Fifth Ave. in New York City and briefly became owner of the Hope Diamond. Pierre Cartier. 5: From the name of a Greek city home to fabulously wealthy inhabitants, this adjective means devoted to luxury. sybaritic. Round 2. Category: Live Cams 1: Through a conservation center in New York, you can observe critically endangered red and Mexican gray ones of these. wolves. 2: Opened in 1919, this iconic golf course on the Monterey Peninsula offers stunning views of the 17th and 18th holes. Pebble Beach. 3: A webcam on Sicily allows you to monitor the activity of this highest active volcano in Europe. Etna. 4: From a webcam in Finland, you can see this nighttime phenomenon that's dependent on a strong solar wind. aurora borealis. 5: You can see people praying day and night at this holy site that was a part of a structure surrounding the Temple of Jerusalem. the Western Wall (Wailing Wall). Round 3. Category: Psychological Problems 1: Just because you have this pervasive suspicion of others, doesn't mean they're not out to get you. Paranoia. 2: Maybe Alfred Adler didn't think he was good enough when he identified and named this complex. Inferiority complex. 3: This self-absorbed personality disorder is named for a mythical youth who loved his reflection. Narcissism. 4: Logorrhea, also called verbomania, is doing this excessively or uncontrollably. Speaking/talking. 5: Washers and hoarders are types of people with OCD, which stands for this. Obsessive compulsive disorder. Round 4. Category: Anything Goes 1: Naval engineer Richard James invented this classic toy after watching a spring fall from a table. Slinky. 2: Appropriately, Bacchus is often depicted in art holding this fruit. grapes. 3: Young Dill in "To Kill a Mockingbird" was inspired by this author of "In Cold Blood". Truman Capote. 4: In 1962 he became the first Australian to win the Grand Slam of tennis; he won it again in 1969. Rod Laver. 5: In 2002 this South American country's Varig Airlines celebrated its 75th anniversary. Brazil. Round 5. Category: World Of Religion 1: From the Arabic for "struggle", this word can mean a personal effort against sin, or a holy war in defense of Islam. jihad. 2: In February 1988, after confessing on live TV to be a sinner, this preacher stepped down from the pulpit. Jimmy Swaggart. 3: The Mahayana branch of this religion is more recent than the Theravada and includes the concept of adherents becoming Bodhisattvas. Buddhism. 4: The sacred shrine of Fushimi-Inari Tasha is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of this foodstuff. rice. 5: Asgard was home to the Norse gods and this most famous palace. Valhalla. Thanks for listening! Come back tomorrow for more exciting trivia!Special thanks to https://blog.feedspot.com/trivia_podcasts/ AI Voices used

(Spirit Rock Meditation Center) This talk describes the deepening of faith and the revelation of our innate Buddha Nature through stories about Zen masters, Bodhisattvas, the Lamed Vov.

Buddhism Reference – Brahman Conduct. Some translations of the Lotus Sutra continue to use this terminology to discuss the comportment of Bodhisattvas. This term shows up in the very first teachings of Shakyamuni in the Avatamsaka Sutra. E-books - “Buddhism Reference – Now Available   Threefoldlotus.com/home/Ebooks.htm

TLK Lotus Sutra - part 59 – Deeds of King Resplendent. Shakyamuni tells a tale of timelessness to recount the filial relationships of leaving the household to pursue a life dedicated to learning and propagation. And as is the form, the story reflects upon the history of comportment and single-mindedness of the present Bodhisattvas. E-books – “Threefold Lotus Dharma Sutra”   Threefoldlotus.com/home/Ebooks.htm

This is the Q&A with the participants during the final session and the vow ceremony … This final session was a thoughtful discussion on the role and experiences of Bodhisattvas […]

This final session was a thoughtful discussion on the role and experiences of Bodhisattvas in the modern world. Roshi Joan, Dekila Chungyalpa, and John Dunne emphasize the importance of community, compassion, and the interconnectivity […]

04/14/2024, Jiryu Rutschman-Byler, dharma talk at Green Gulch Farm. In this talk, Jiryu suggests that by reflecting on the potential of Artificial Intelligence in Buddhism, in the form, for example, of the Suzuki Roshi chatbot, we can be led to renew our commitment to embodied presence, which is the real purpose and effort of Zen practice, and the real source of Bodhisattvas' wisdom and compassion.

In this session, Clear Mountain's community is joined by the renowned forest master, Ajahn Anan, a close disciple of Luang Por Chah and abbot of Wat Marp Jan monastery. For more information about Ajahn Anan and Wat Marp Jan, visit: https://watmarpjan.org/en/

TLK Lotus Sutra - part 31 – Teachers of the Right Dharma Law. Shakyamunibuddha makes it absolutely clear that this teaching is for Bodhisattvas to attain the Buddha Way. E-books – “Threefold Lotus Dharma Sutra” –  Artist's Proof   Threefoldlotus.com/home/Ebooks.htm

Bodhisatta or Bodhisattva is a term often used to describe an enlightened individual who possesses wisdom and compassion. These are people who demonstrate the paramitas or perfections in their lifestyle. We says this as a compliment, a form of admiration.   The definition of Bodhisattva extends beyond being a beacon of relief in a world of suffering, especially when considering the term across the three major ways of being Buddhist - Theravāda, Mahāyana, and Vajrayāna. However, we won't explore a full-scale exposition of what Bodhisattva signifies in these varied paths of Buddhism this time around. Instead, we ponder, how fully developed does one need to be in order to help others with their suffering?  Are all those who help others deal with their suffering Bodhisattvas? Must one wait to embark on the noble journey of aiding others in their suffering? 

Michael talks about people who can rub our back and say "it's ok" and everything they do is jewelled. Recorded May 24, 2011. As we uncover some of the long-lost episodes of the 2011 Lotus Sutra collection we'll be adding podcast episodes as they go up to a playlist here: soundcloud.com/michaelstoneteaching/sets/lotus-sutra While some of the audio podcast episodes may be lost, you can read transcripts and notes from the talks in the text section of the community library. The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone.

A talk given at Berkeley Zen Center on Saturday, March 16th 2024 by Hannah Meara.

TLK Lotus Sutra - part 28 – Predictions for the Arhats. Ultimately for the entire assembly, Shakyamuni states the ever present potential in all sentient minds to attain enlightenment, the realization of Tathagata, to course (live) as Bodhisattvas with Buddha mind. E-books – “Threefold Lotus Dharma Sutra” –  Artist's Proof   Threefoldlotus.com/home/Ebooks.htm

Podcast Audio: The post Talk by Jiryu, “Bodhisattvas Always Smile” first appeared on The Village Zendo.

Hurvitz–Lotus Sutra–part 36. Welling up Out of the Earth. The appearance of the Bodhisattvas of the future of Buddhism, the Lotus Bodhisattvas. E-books - “Buddhism Reference Volume 2” - available at  Threefoldlotus.com/home/Ebooks.htm

Hurvitz–Lotus Sutra–part 29. Teachers of the Dharma. Bodhisattvas should feel support and protection from Buddha as they practice and teach others. Sentient minds attracted will react in their capacities and at times reject or assault in fear; we are not deterred with correct attitude and intent to guide us. E-books - “Buddhism Reference Volume 2” - available at  Threefoldlotus.com/home/Ebooks.htm

Here's part two of the experiment. Julia Marie wants to know if the EH audience is interested in more channeled material. She has been channeling since the early 90s but rarely releases any of it to the public.Please leave your feedback at the Evolving Humans website.Thank you for your continued support of Evolving Humans.Thank you for listening to Evolving Humans! For consultations or classes, please visit my website: www.JuliaMarie.usYou can leave your questions, comments and suggestions via Voicemail at https://www.EvolvingHumansPodcast.com.Who knows, perhaps your question or comment will be featured on a future episode! I can't wait for your questions or hear your feedback.

Did you know the Buddha was "super"? He had supernatural and supranormal abilities. But this was something he didn't see as central to Buddhism, but as a consequence of meditative concentration. Yet, it is a key part of skillful means in Buddhism where the Buddha (and also Buddhas and Bodhisattvas) used these abilities in many ways to aid others with the path in Buddhism and achieving liberation. Learn in this episode why these abilities are important and what they mean to Buddhism! Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alanpeto/message

The Mahayana, or open path, is the path of the Bodhisattva — the enlightened warrior of wisdom and compassion  •  at the core of the Mahayana path is an outrageous vow, called the Bodhisattva vow, where we vow to emulate the great Bodhisattvas of wisdom and compassionate action  •  the Bodhisattva vow, conventionally speaking, makes no sense at all  •  you vow to save all sentient beings as vast as they are throughout space and time  •  you might think, that's pretty darn presumptuous to make a vow like that; you might even call it absurd, impossible  •  nonetheless, you do it  •  it's crazy to think that you could save all sentient beings, or even hold that thought at all  •  but you keep going, and if you're fortunate, you might be able to save at least someone, or some being, from some level of suffering  •  the vow of the Bodhisattva is not dreamy or romantic; it is grounded in very gritty reality of life for sentient beings of all kinds who suffer greatly  •  but because you see this pattern so clearly, you also see the flip side  •  instead of saying, “Wherever there are sentient beings, there are conflicting emotions,” you could say, “And wherever there are sentient beings, there's wisdom, there's intelligence; there's love and kindness and compassion. There are efforts to help. There is a lessening of pain, sorrow, and suffering.” In approaching the Bodhisattva path, you recognize that both of these patterns are true.

Directly following Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche's death, Jack offers perspectives on the life and dharma of one of spirituality's most impactful and controversial figures."Lama Govinda said that of all the young tulkus, of all the young incarnate lamas to leave Tibet, there was none as bright as Trungpa Rinpoche—bright in the sense of his field of his being and his energy. Lama Govinda, even at a point when he wasn't very happy with the way Trungpa Rinpoche was behaving, said that he still had to admit there was no one who walked across the Himalayas and came out who had that light more than Trungpa." – Jack Kornfield In this episode, Jack dives into:A celebration of the life, teachings, and impact of Chögyam Trungpa RinpocheThe Vimalakīrti Sutra, and how certain Bodhisattvas teach as householders so that their message can be best understood by the worldHow Jack being invited to teach alongside Ram Dass, Sharon Salzberg, and Joseph Goldstein on the faculty of Trungpa's Naropa University in Boulder, CO sparked their teaching careers in the WestLama Govinda's view on Trungpa's innate radiant brightness and his "lion's roar"The traditions, trainings, and spirit of Shambala through the metaphor of the rising sunMeeting our life and practice with an openness and fearlessnessBuddhist personality types and their unique seeds of awakeningTrungpa's discipline for practice, and his deep devotion for his teachers and dharma lineagePing-ponging between Ram Dass's and Trungpa Rinpoche's dueling Bhakti and Buddhism sessions the opening summer at Naropa"Trungpa Rinpoche gave himself as fully to the West as any Buddhist teacher that I know that has come. And in a more remarkable way, he absorbed our culture, our language, our customs, who we are, into himself and said, 'Alright, let's play! Let's take the seed of the Dharma and really make it sparkle and alive in the West.'" – Jack Kornfield This Dharma Talk on 4/01/1987 at Spirit Rock Meditation Center was originally published on DharmaSeed.orgSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Tips & Insights” is a miniseries in which we'll introduce one Buddhist concept each month and how it can be applied to your life.Today's is: Bodhisattvas of the Earth.References: Nichiren Buddhist Library: Bodhisattva The Bodhisattva Opens the Way to Happiness for All The Mission and Practice of the Bodhisattvas of the Earth Illuminate the World With the Sun of Your Youthful Vow